Convulsive syncope related to a small dose of quetiapine in an adolescent with bipolar disorder

Abstract

Quetiapine, an atypical antipsychotic, has been extensively used in patients with bipolar disorder. Overdose of quetiapine can result in severe complications, such as coma, seizure, respiratory depression, arrhythmia, and even death. However, the paucity of toxicological evaluation in adolescence causes more potential risks in this population. Herein, we present a case of hypotension and convulsive syncope after exposure to a small dose of quetiapine in a 16-year-old who was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. After cessation of quetiapine, no additional convulsive movements were reported. This case indicates that even in young patients without predisposing factors, close monitoring of adverse effects should be warranted for safety concerns, especially at the initiation of quetiapine treatment.

Therapeutic Interventions to Mitigate Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Oxidative Stress–Induced Damage in Patients with Bipolar Disorder

“…The antipsychotic actions of quetiapine are likely derived from its antagonistic activity against DA D 2 receptors and serotonin 5-hydroxytryptamine 2 receptors [350]. Quetiapine is an atypical antipsychotic agent that is administered orally [351,352]. On occasion, it is recommended for the treatment of BD, although some studies have suggested that it is more successful specifically in alleviating the symptoms of anxiety and depression accompanying BD [351][352][353][354].…”

“…Quetiapine is an atypical antipsychotic agent that is administered orally [351,352]. On occasion, it is recommended for the treatment of BD, although some studies have suggested that it is more successful specifically in alleviating the symptoms of anxiety and depression accompanying BD [351][352][353][354]. Five double-blind RCTs evaluated the tolerability and effectiveness of quetiapine over 8 weeks in BD patients who were undergoing a major depressive episode [350].…”